Overview & Reviews

Why are Honda vehicles so highly regarded by American drivers? Certainly, their excellent reputation for reliability and quality is a major factor. But it also has to do with the overall driving and owning experience. Read any Honda review and you'll likely notice common themes such as thoughtful design, a friendly nature, better-than-average fuel economy and attention to safety.

Japan-based Honda Motor Company was founded in 1948 by Soichiro Honda. The company got its start making motorbikes. Japan had been rendered cash poor and fuel-starved after World War II, and its citizens were hurting for an inexpensive, fuel-efficient mode of transportation. Honda's first motorcycles mated engines with bicycles to create a motorbike that was cheap to make and operate.

Honda's bikes quickly evolved into vehicles far more sophisticated than small engines stuck into bicycle frames. The manufacturer's 1949 D-Type could reach speeds of up to 50 mph, and offered front and rear suspension. The 1950s saw the launch of the successful Juno scooter, built to steal market share from the Vespa knockoffs that were popular in Japan at that time. In the latter part of that decade, Honda introduced the ultra-successful C100 Super Cub. The motorbike was remarkably easy to operate and featured a crossbar-free frame that made it popular with women. It went on to become the first Honda motorbike sold in the U.S. via then-new American Honda Co. in 1959.

By the early 1960s, Honda had built its first automobiles for the Japanese home market and entered Formula One racing. But it wasn't until 1970 that it exported its first car, the diminutive N600, to the U.S. The automaker initially had a hard time sparking interest among American buyers, but that all changed in 1973 with the introduction of the Civic. The car was larger than Honda's previous models even though it was still very petite compared to compact American cars. The Civic's high fuel efficiency (an important selling point given that decade's energy crisis) and affordability made it Honda's first American success story. By 1976, the Civic had been joined by the Accord, which quickly became a favorite with U.S. consumers as well.

By the 1980s, Honda's success and its reputation as a maker of well-built reliable cars and motorcycles continued to grow. It began building Accords in the U.S. in 1982 and by 1989 had earned the distinction of making America's most popular car. This was also the decade in which Honda created the Acura brand as a way to sell more upscale and luxurious vehicles. Throughout this decade and into the 1990s, the Civic and Accord were huge sellers and considered class benchmarks. Also during this time, Honda continued to innovate through such technologies as variable valve timing, aluminum body construction and improved safety features.

Today, Honda's lineup runs the gamut. Included are fuel-sipping hybrids, a spacious minivan, reliable family sedans, practical SUVs and even a pickup. Although the latest Civic and Accord aren't quite the benchmarks they once were for their respective classes, Honda's brand as a whole continues to be one of the most well respected in the industry, with millions of loyal and satisfied customers.

User Reviews:

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  Wonderful Value - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Pamela Powell - April 7 - 6:03 pm

  This car has had nothing but regular maintenance! It is a very very reliable car.

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  CRV Review - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By cmac27 - April 6 - 8:30 am

  Test drove the RAV4, Forester and CR-V. For only $1K more the CR-V had moon roof, alloy wheels privacy glass and a hundred little gadgets like tire pressure monitoring, extra engine maint. gauges, trip estimates and a better sound system (w/ ipod input jack). The CR-V had better interior than both the RAV4 and Forester and was much much quieter. Was somewhat disappointed in fuel economy. Sticker says 22-27 but Ive been averaging about 19 mpg with half city/half hwy driving. Though I took it on a road trip last week and averaged 28.5 mpg w/ cruise on. Also, your not going to win any races with this car. The performance is adequate and responsive but not extraordinary.

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  I dont want to trade it. - 1998 Honda Accord
  By ACCORD - April 5 - 12:51 pm

  Very reliable, 115,678 miles and counting. Cold a/c, passenger power lock needs repair.

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  Bad AC - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Josh - April 4 - 9:00 pm

  I just purchased a 2004 Honda crv lx.. Had owned 3 Toyotas previously. And a Honda Prelude at one time. Was always reliable. I thought the same would be true for the Honda crv. I was mistaken. Bought it with 46,500 miles. AC went out at 47,400. Never had this problem with my Toyotas or my 1988 Honda prelude. Very disappointed. Starting to Wonder why I am considering imports anymore. Reliability is not the same but they are still at a premium in cost.

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  Best vehicle yet owned (Im 60) - 2014 Honda CR-V
  By nodhimmi - April 4 - 6:31 pm

  Dealer quality was a major factor here: this was 3rd Honda purchased new - all of which came with a "Platinum Package" providing free oil changes, state inspections and other great discounts. Have learned that package is no longer offered ( too good a deal). Maintenance costs of all Hondas Ive owned has been very low, so far with this CRV its been the best. Love the car in all aspects except for noises: rattles and jingling in the back and annoying plastic clattering noises in dash/windshield area. Dealer has not been able to find easily, and Im not willing to tear the interior panels apart to find what it is at this stage. Other than noises, I have high hopes that the CRV will last to 150K miles.

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  best car ever - 1991 Honda Civic
  By kris - April 4 - 1:39 pm

  Guys, this car is amazing. Been in the family since the beginning. Ive learn to drive in it and Im still driving it. Although its an automatic it doesnt matter. The engine is 1200 cc. Never got breakdown and mileage : 245k! Sure will reach 300k without any repair. And its an old style, I mean little electronic only muscle! When there is a problem, you know what to do.

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  pretty good deal - 2005 Honda Element
  By kathy - April 3 - 9:37 pm

  I purchased my Element brand new. It has really been good to me overall. the only problem I have is with gas mileage. I love my Element except for the mileage. It handles well and does very well in the snow.

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  Great lil car - 1999 Honda Civic
  By Honch - April 3 - 5:24 pm

  After a lot of research, reading and having only $5000 to buy a car with, I went for this 99 Civic EX. I can say I dont regret the decision. I bought it with 150K on the clock and it starts / runs just like a brand new car. Very impressed. I have a feeling I will get a solid 75K to 100K more from this lil car before any major replacements will be needed.

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  New to Honda - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Rocksmom - April 3 - 4:02 pm

  I am a first time Honda owner after trading in my Nissan Maxima for the 2007 CR-V. I dont know if it is because I am only 53 but I am having a difficult time with visibility while turning corners and changing lanes. My 2nd issues is mpg, I am a conservative driver but still only managing 21 mpg in town and 26 mpg hwy. The one feature I could not give up was my Homelink system. My dealer installed an Acura mirror with homelink as part of the deal, as well as a rear cargo cover & remote start. I prefer the plush leather seats of the Maxima for long distance driving, but for in town the CR-Vs are fine. I am amazed and delighted at how well the CR-V has handled winter driving.

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  Best SUV - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By daswa - April 3 - 10:00 am

  This is our third SUV (4Runner, Explorer) and hands down the best all around. Rides like a car, Seats eight and goes through six inches of snow like nothing else.